I have used both the SIRT's system with software and the LaserAmmo/SureStrike system. I am not suggesting one is "better" than the other, they both have their advantages.
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But, whether or dedicated laser pistol, or their own pistol, it is great fun.
The LASR system works with either a dedicated laser pistol, or their own pistol with inserts. NE Bull's comment wasn't about what to use for the pistol, it was about the shot reporting system---how you tell where the hits are.
While some interactive targets are okay, many (IMO) aren't very good, or are only mediocre and are still expensive. The LASR software, on the other hand, is fantastic for many different levels of skill, from beginners to experienced shooters. The range of possibilities with the LASR stuff makes all sorts of drills easy to run. I've had a lot of success with people in wildly different classes using various aspects of the LASR software.
I personally prefer students to use their own guns, even if (for many pistols) it means only a one-shot capability. That being said, for complete newbies who don't have guns or don't know enough yet to really work with one, a SIRT pistol is a great way to start.
The LASR system is excellent for all of it, much more than things like the laserammo targets, IMO. (Though the laserammo
inserts work really well.)